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Canned Tomatoes — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Canned tomatoes photo

Listonic Team

September 4, 2024

Canned tomatoes are a kitchen essential, perfect for sauces, stews, and soups. Find out how to pick the best cans, their health benefits, and how to use them to boost flavor in your meals.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of canned tomatoes, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 32 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs7 g2.55%
Fiber1 g3.57%
Sugars5 g10%
Glycemic Index38 -
Protein2 g4%
Sodium236 mg10.26%
Total Fat0 -

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes canned tomatoes stand out:

32

🍏 Low-Calorie Foods

38

🟢 Low Glycemic Index

Key takeaways

😋
Cooking increases the bioavailability of lycopene, an antioxidant in tomatoes.
📦
Store unopened cans of tomatoes in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer to an airtight container, refrigerate, and use within three to four days.

Health benefits

Find out how canned tomatoes can add flavor and nutrients to your dishes, enhancing your diet and supporting health.
  • Rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
  • Supports heart health by improving cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure due to their high potassium content.
  • Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate, which support overall health and well-being.
  • Versatile and nutritious, adding flavor and nutrients to a variety of dishes.

Health risks

Recognize the potential health concerns and risks linked to canned tomatoes.
  • High sodium content in many canned varieties, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks.
  • Potential for BPA exposure from the lining of some cans, particularly concerning with acidic foods like tomatoes, which may lead to potential health risks such as hormonal imbalances.
  • Possible loss of nutrients due to the canning process, which can reduce the vitamin and mineral content of tomatoes.
  • Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria or toxins if the can is damaged or improperly processed.
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How to choose canned tomatoes

When evaluating canned tomatoes, search for those that are bright red and emit a fragrance akin to fresh tomatoes. They should be preserved in their own juice with few additives. Prefer options labeled as organic or non-GMO for optimal quality and health benefits.

Avoid canned tomatoes that have a metallic taste or a mushy texture, as these characteristics can diminish their culinary value. The finest canned tomatoes should feature firm, intact tomatoes that taste vibrant and fresh.

How to choose canned tomatoes

How to store canned tomatoes

A cool, dry pantry is perfect for storing unopened canned tomatoes. Once opened, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. This will help them stay fresh for up to five days.

Storing tomatoes in the original can after opening can lead to a metallic taste. Transfer them to a glass or plastic container to maintain their flavor. Ensure the lid is tightly closed to prevent spoilage. Always use clean utensils to avoid introducing bacteria.

✅ Extra Tip

To enhance the flavor of stored canned tomatoes, add a pinch of salt or a drizzle of olive oil when transferring them to the container.

How long do they last?

Canned tomatoes can last for 1-2 years when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and used within 3-4 days. Transfer them to an airtight container after opening to maintain their freshness.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover canned tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes. Use them as a base for soups, stews, or chili, where their rich flavor adds depth and acidity. Canned tomatoes are also great in pasta sauces, whether you're making a marinara, Bolognese, or arrabbiata.

Use canned tomatoes in a casserole with vegetables and cheese, or mix them into a pasta bake with penne or rigatoni. If you have a lot of canned tomatoes, consider making a batch of tomato soup or using them in a shakshuka with eggs and spices. Canned tomatoes can also be used in a pizza sauce or mixed into a rice dish like Spanish rice or jambalaya. For a quick and easy meal, simmer canned tomatoes with garlic and olive oil, then toss with pasta and Parmesan cheese.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

How canned tomatoes support specific health conditions

Canned tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering cholesterol levels. Their high vitamin C content promotes immune health and skin health by aiding collagen production. Canned tomatoes are also low in calories and a good source of fiber, supporting digestive health. Additionally, the antioxidants in tomatoes may help reduce the risk of certain cancers by protecting cells from oxidative stress.

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